The 7 Biggest Mistakes New RV Owners Make (And How to Avoid Them)
If you are new to the RV world, welcome aboard. Whether you’re planning weekend
getaways or gearing up for cross-country adventures, one thing’s certain: RVing is fun… but
it comes with a learning curve. And some lessons? Well, they show up fast.
I want to walk you through the seven biggest mistakes
new RV owners make—and exactly how to avoid them. No judgment here. We have all been
there. My goal is to help you skip the headaches, save a little cash, and travel with
confidence right from the start.
Let’s jump in.
1. Not Understanding RV Weight, Towing Capacity, and Cargo Limits
This mistake bites more new RV owners than almost anything else. RVs have strict weight
limits, and going over them affects everything from safety to handling.
Know these key terms:
• GVWR — Maximum safe weight when fully loaded
• UVW — Dry weight of the RV as delivered
• CCC — How much gear you can safely load
• Tongue Weight — Crucial for towing stability
When you're overloaded, you risk:
• Tire blowouts
• Poor braking
• Swaying
• Suspension damage
Tip: Stop at a CAT scale one time. It’s cheap and gives you total peace of mind.
2. Not Leveling the RV Correctly
A lot of first-timers think “close enough” is good enough. But being off-level causes:
• Fridge malfunctions
• Shower drainage issues
• Slide-out strain
• Incorrect tank readings
• Cabinet doors swinging open
The key basics:
• Level side-to-side first
• Then adjust front-to-back
• Use chocks every time
• Don’t rely on the tongue jack alone
A few trips in, and you willl level your RV like a seasoned pro.
3. Skipping Basic RV Maintenance
This is an easy mistake because RVs look tough. But they need regular attention.
Your maintenance must-do list:
• Inspect the roof and seals twice yearly
• Lubricate slide-out seals
• Flush water heater seasonally
• Check tire pressure every drive
• Test smoke and CO detectors
• Sanitize the freshwater system every few months
If you see water where it shouldn’t be… stop and fix it now. RV “later” gets
expensive.
4. Misjudging Turns, Heights, and Campsite Space
This one gets everybody at some point. RVs are taller, wider, and longer than they feel.
Common issues:
• Turning too tight
• Forgetting roof height under bridges
• Trying to fit into undersized campsites
• Tail swing hitting poles or trees
Rule of thumb:
“When in doubt—get out.”
Hop out and look. It’s free, and it saves a lot of money.
5. Arriving at a Campsite After Dark
Hooking up in daylight is easy. Doing it in pitch black is… well… something else.
Night arrivals make everything harder:
• Backing in
• Leveling
• Avoiding obstacles
• Finding hookups
Always plan to arrive before sunset. If not:
• Carry a good lantern
• Turn on your RV exterior lights
• Move slowly and stay patient
RVing isn’t a race. Take your time.
6. Relying Only on Google Maps for Navigation
Google Maps is great for cars—not RVs. It won’t warn you about:
• Low bridges
• Weight restrictions
• Steep grades
• Tight switchbacks
• Unsafe rural “shortcuts”
Instead, use RV-specific navigation:
• RV Life app
• CoPilot RV
• Garmin RV GPS
These systems let you enter RV height, weight, and length to route you safely.
7. Not Packing the Right RV Essentials
Every new RVer forgets something important. The problem is nobody gives you a checklist
when you buy the RV.
If you missed any of these items, add them ASAP:
• Sewer hose + clear elbow
• Drinking-safe freshwater hose
• Water pressure regulator
• Surge protector
• Leveling blocks
• Wheel chocks
• RV tool kit
• Inline water filter
• Dogbone adapter
• Gloves
These basics prevent 90% of avoidable RV problems.
Final Thoughts: Mistakes Are Part of the Journey—But You Can Dodge Most of Them
RVing is supposed to be fun, relaxing, and full of little adventures—not stressful surprises.
By knowing these seven common mistakes ahead of time, you’re already miles ahead of
most first-time RVers.
Confidence doesn’t come from being perfect.
It comes from being prepared.
And after reading this? You’re well on your way.
Safe travels out there,
